Arrow setup for a Total Archery Challenge course

Field points for TAC

Broadheads are not allowed on TAC courses^[1]. Use field points throughout the shoot. Follow the configuration for that shaft and the current event rules; the TAC FAQ lists the event requirements.

Choose spine from measured peak draw weight and components

Compare lower-GPI shafts that still fall within the correct spine range for your measured peak draw weight, arrow length and complete front-end stack. Use the chart and the definitions published with it. Gold Tip measures arrow length from the nock throat to the end of the insert. Its selector adds point, insert, Ballistic Collar and FACT weight and calls that total point weight. The Easton 5.0 shaft accepts HIT inserts or a 50-grain steel one-piece half-out. Recheck the chart after you choose components.

Gold Tip Airstrike and Easton 5.0 are hunting-shaft examples for comparing bare-shaft mass, not universal TAC picks. Airstrike lists 7.2 GPI at 400 spine in the Gold Tip catalog; Easton lists 6.8 GPI for the 400-spine 5.0. For 3D target practice, the Gold Tip X-Cutter Plus has a .380-inch outside diameter; the same catalog lists its 250-spine option at 7.8 GPI. A wider shaft can catch a scoring line that a narrower shaft misses, but its larger cross-section presents more area to crosswind. These examples do not replace the spine selector for that shaft.

The Gold Tip FACT weight system includes 10-, 20- and 50-grain options for compatible shafts. Added front mass raises finished arrow weight, shifts the balance point forward and can weaken dynamic spine in a compound bow. A heavier build may need different sight marks at distance. The Easton FOC FAQ says moving the balance forward can make arrow flight more stable, up to a point, and that excess front weight lowers dynamic spine and can make tuning harder. Measure FOC on the finished arrow, then confirm the setup by tuning and comparing groups. That number describes the arrow you built. It does not set a universal FOC percentage, and it does not promise forgiveness or better performance in wind.

Shaft mass, diameter and wind

At the same bow setup, a lower finished-arrow mass generally leaves faster, with a different trajectory and different sight marks. That can make a lighter build useful when you want more speed or less arc; the tradeoff is less arrow mass and lower momentum at a given speed. Wind response also depends on shaft diameter and length, fletching, flight time and conditions. Lower GPI only means less bare-shaft mass at the same cut length, not the weight of the finished arrow.

Inspect the finished arrow and measure FOC

Inspect shafts and components the way the manufacturer describes. Confirm fletching clearance at the rest, cables and riser after setup changes. Measure the balance point of the finished arrow and record FOC if it helps compare builds. Use the FOC calculator to convert the balance point and arrow length to a percentage. Then verify tune and the sight setting at the distances you plan to shoot. The Gold Tip selector and the Easton shaft chart describe their own models.

Set the sight with the finished arrows

After choosing and tuning the complete arrow, follow the tape method for that sight and confirm each setting by shooting at known distances. TAC says shooters may use the warm-up range when the event is open^[1]. If the warm-up range is open, use it to check the finished setup before you start the course. Recheck if you change shaft length, point weight, insert or other components. A rangefinder reading or sight tape does not replace practice verification.

Record the build

Record shaft model and spine, measured peak draw weight, arrow length and measurement method, point, insert, collar or outsert, nock, fletching and finished arrow mass. Include the measured balance point and FOC if useful for comparing builds. Use the definitions for that shaft when ordering replacements; different manufacturers may measure arrow length or point weight differently.

Once you have used the shaft maker's chart to identify a candidate, browse the arrow category for listed shafts. For paid custom-arrow assembly of components you have chosen, submit a request through the arrow builder. The inquiry creates no order and takes no payment. Staff confirm the requested parts and compatibility before sending a Shopify invoice. The manufacturer chart remains the guide for shaft-spine selection.

Practice with field points

Use a target rated for your bow and field points, with a safe backstop. TAC says it uses primarily Rinehart targets^[1]. Event target information does not replace the rating and care instructions for that target.